14 MPG combined. That figure from the 2015 Nissan Armada 4WD, equipped with its 5.6L V8, isn’t going to win any awards for lower fuel costs. But Armada buyers aren’t shopping for fuel sippers. They need serious towing capacity, cavernous interior space, and the confidence of four-wheel drive. The Armada is a tool, and its fuel consumption is simply the price you pay for its capabilities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Nissan Armada 4WD at 12 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the Armada’s substantial weight and large displacement engine work against it.

The highway rating, while still not impressive, is achievable if you maintain a steady speed and avoid aggressive acceleration. Knowing these figures allows potential buyers to adjust their expectations based on their typical driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Nissan Armada 4WD at $3,150. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This figure is intended to provide a standardized comparison point across different vehicles, but it does not account for individual driving habits or regional fuel price variations.

If you tow frequently or regularly drive in congested areas, expect to spend significantly more.

Real-world expectations

Drivers report that matching the EPA’s 18 MPG highway figure requires conscious effort. Aggressive acceleration in this heavy SUV will greatly reduce that figure. City driving rarely produces the claimed 12 MPG. Most Armada owners accept that they will likely see a combined MPG average closer to 13 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Armada MPG across all years tends to be similar, so this behavior is to be expected.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2015 Armada’s fuel economy picture is unflattering. The 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD, for instance, boasts a combined 18 MPG from its 5.3L V8. The Ford Expedition 4WD, with its turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, achieves a similar 18 MPG combined. Even the Toyota Sequoia 4WD, another large SUV, manages a marginally better 15 MPG combined. For buyers cross-shopping in the large SUV segment, these differences can add up to hundreds of dollars per year in fuel costs.

However, for some, Nissan offers better value and all Nissan fuel economy data suggests that this is a unique case.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to saving fuel in the Armada. The large V8 engine responds quickly to throttle inputs, so avoid stomping on the gas pedal. Anticipate traffic flow and brake early to minimize the need for hard acceleration later.

Proper tire inflation can also have a noticeable impact on fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder.

Minimize idling time. The Armada’s fuel consumption at idle is surprisingly high, so avoid unnecessary idling, especially during cold starts. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Removing unnecessary cargo from the vehicle can slightly improve fuel economy. The Armada is already heavy, so every pound counts. Clean out the clutter in your trunk, and take off your roof rack if it is not in use.

Pay attention to driving speed. While the Armada’s 5-speed automatic will happily let you cruise at high speeds, the faster you drive, the more you will be penalized at the pump. Try to keep your speeds no more than 5 MPH above the speed limit, if possible.